15 Best Things to Do in Gibraltar With Kids

You’ll love Gibraltar’s family adventures, from riding the cable car 412 meters up to meet playful Barbary macaques at the Top of the Rock. Explore the magical St. Michael’s Cave with its colorful LED lights and underground lake, then discover the historic Great Siege Tunnels carved by soldiers. Take dolphin-watching boat trips with 99% success rates, visit the Wildlife Park’s endangered species, and enjoy duty-free shopping on pedestrian-friendly Main Street. These exciting attractions offer just the beginning of what awaits your family.

Take the Cable Car to the Top of the Rock

While Gibraltar offers plenty of ground-level adventures, nothing beats the thrill of soaring up the Rock in a cable car with your kids cheering beside you. This Swiss-built system whisks you 412 meters above sea level in just six minutes, reaching speeds of 11.2 mph over 2,000 feet of track.

The 30-passenger cabins depart every 10 minutes, making it perfect for families. During the gentle ascent, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Gibraltar town, Spain, and even North Africa on clear days. Audio commentary keeps everyone engaged with local history and landmarks.

Arrive before 10:00 AM to avoid cruise ship crowds. The Top Station offers cafés, toilets, and access to attractions like Skywalk and St. Michael’s Cave—making this Gibraltar’s must-do family adventure. Kids will be delighted to spot the famous Gibraltar macaques near the Top Station, these beloved Barbary apes that have become symbols of the Rock itself.

Meet the Famous Barbary Macaques

Gibraltar’s most famous residents aren’t human—they’re the 300 playful Barbary macaques who’ve called the Rock home for centuries.

You’ll find these clever monkeys at Queen’s Gate Ape’s Den, where they’ll fearlessly approach your family and might even climb on you!

These tailless primates are Europe’s only wild monkey population and absolutely love stealing food from travelers’ pockets and bags. Watch as the males carry and groom the adorable infants, showing their strong parental bonds that make these macaques unique among primates.

Explore St. Michael’s Cave Underground Wonderland

After watching those cheeky macaques steal snacks from unsuspecting travelers, you’ll want to escape into a completely different world beneath Gibraltar’s surface. St. Michael’s Cave transforms into an underground wonderland that’ll captivate your kids’ imaginations.

The limestone chambers showcase stunning stalactites and stalagmites, dramatically lit by colorful LED lights that create a magical atmosphere.

Your family will love the Cathedral Cave’s light-and-music shows, where natural acoustics turn rock formations into a spectacular theater.

Kids can safely explore walkways while learning about 20,000-year-old cave art and ancient legends through kid-friendly displays. The cave sits 300 meters above sea level in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

The cool, stable temperature provides perfect relief from Gibraltar’s heat, and the subterranean lake adds an extra touch of mystery to this geological marvel.

Go Dolphin and Whale Watching in the Strait

Once you’ve marveled at the underground wonders, head to Gibraltar’s marina for an unforgettable marine adventure that’ll have your kids squealing with excitement. You’re practically guaranteed to spot dolphins or whales with a 99% sighting success rate!

Your family will see playful bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins in pods, and if you’re lucky, massive sperm whales or even orcas during migration season.

The eco-friendly boats feature professional marine biologists who’ll share fascinating facts about these incredible creatures while sailing past the Rock of Gibraltar and Europa Point Lighthouse. During the excursion, you’ll also get unique water views of Gorham’s Cave, a notable archaeological site that adds an educational element to your marine adventure.

Tours last 1-4 hours with multiple daily departures, and they’re suitable for all ages. Starting at just $39 per adult, this educational adventure offers door-to-door pickup and free cancellation options.

Discover the Great Siege Tunnels

Step into Gibraltar’s most incredible underground adventure where your family will walk through tunnels that helped win one of history’s most famous sieges! The Great Siege Tunnels were carved from solid rock by brave soldiers during the 1779-1783 siege, when 7,000 British defenders faced 40,000 enemy troops.

You’ll explore St. George’s Hall and other amazing galleries where cannons once fired through embrasures cut into the cliff face. Kids love seeing the square holes on the North Face that mark where these gun ports protected Gibraltar.

The tunnels stretch over 900 feet and showcase historic weapons, interactive exhibits, and displays showing what life was like for defenders. These remarkable passages were constructed by British soldiers and local civilians using hand tools and explosives to create strategic military positions throughout the rock.

It’s included in your Gibraltar Pass and offers incredible views of the siege battlegrounds below!

Visit Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park

Meet over 128 amazing animals from 36 different species at Alameda Wildlife Conservation Park, Gibraltar’s only wildlife sanctuary tucked inside the beautiful Botanic Gardens! You’ll get up-close views of endangered Cotton-top tamarins, playful lemurs, Asian short-clawed otters, colorful parrots, and even a Burmese python. Many animals here were rescued from illegal traders, making each exhibit tell an important conservation story.

The park’s compact size makes it perfect for families – you won’t get overwhelmed walking around with kids. Located at the Rock’s base, the shaded garden setting keeps everyone comfortable. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, creating immersive environments that enhance both animal welfare and your viewing experience.

Open Monday through Saturday (10:00-16:30), admission costs around £8 for adults and £5 for children. The terrain includes slopes and steps, so plan buggy-friendly routes accordingly.

Enjoy Panoramic Views From Europa Point

After exploring Gibraltar’s wildlife, head to Europa Point for some of the most spectacular views your family will ever see! Standing at Gibraltar’s southernmost tip, you’ll witness something truly magical – two continents, two seas, and endless possibilities for wonder.

Your kids will be amazed watching massive ships navigate the narrow strait between Europe and Africa. On clear days, you can spot Morocco’s mountains across the water, just 7-8 nautical miles away! The level terrain makes it perfect for pushchairs, while dedicated viewing platforms keep everyone safe.

Don’t miss the striking red-and-white lighthouse and the beautiful Ibrahim-al-Ibrahim Mosque. The surrounding waters are home to dolphins and whales, making it an exciting spot for marine wildlife spotting. Take Bus No. 2 from town center for an easy 15-minute ride. The on-site café provides perfect snack breaks while you soak in these unforgettable panoramic views.

Stroll Through the Historic Alameda Gardens

When you need a peaceful break from Gibraltar’s bustling attractions, the historic Alameda Gardens offers your family 15 acres of natural beauty and fascinating history dating back to 1816.

You’ll discover winding paths perfect for little legs, leading through terraced beds carved into Jurassic limestone and exotic plants from around the world.

Don’t miss The Dell, a stunning Italian-style sunken garden featuring fountains, koi fish, and Gibraltar’s largest freshwater lake.

Your kids will love spotting 200-year-old trees like the massive Stone Pine and Dragon Tree.

The adventure playground keeps children entertained while you explore historic memorials and botanical treasures.

Originally established as a botanical garden for soldiers stationed in Gibraltar, the gardens have evolved into a cherished green sanctuary that continues to serve both locals and visitors today.

The gardens open daily from sunrise to sunset, making them perfect for morning strolls or afternoon adventures after sightseeing.

Learn About Military History at Princess Caroline’s Battery

Built in 1732 as part of Gibraltar’s northern defenses, Princess Caroline’s Battery gives your family a fascinating glimpse into nearly three centuries of military history. Your kids will love exploring the underground magazine, now converted into the Military Heritage Centre, where they can see historical weapons, shells, uniforms, and photographs that bring Gibraltar’s defensive story to life.

The site’s kid-friendly interpretation panels explain how artillery crews operated massive guns and stored ammunition safely below ground. You’ll discover how soldiers changed clothes and wore special footwear to prevent sparks near explosives. The battery saw significant action during the Great Siege of Gibraltar, when its strategic position proved crucial for the Rock’s defense.

The Memorial Chamber honors regiments who’ve served Gibraltar since the 18th century. Located near the Moorish Castle, it’s perfect for combining with other Upper Rock attractions for a full day of historical exploration.

Watch Marine Life at the Strait of Gibraltar

From Gibraltar’s historic battlements, you can spot something even more spectacular than ancient cannons—the incredible marine life that calls the Strait of Gibraltar home. These waters teem with dolphins and whales because nutrient-rich currents from the Atlantic and Mediterranean create a massive underwater buffet that’s even visible from space!

You’ll likely see bottlenose dolphins (up to 4 meters long!), striped dolphins traveling in groups of over 1,000, and pilot whales that can weigh as much as two cars. During summer months, you might spot massive fin whales—they’re longer than three school buses lined up!

The best part? Orcas visit in July and August, following bluefin tuna migrations. These incredible waters see over one million cubic meters of water flowing from the Atlantic to Mediterranean every second, creating the perfect conditions for marine life. Pack binoculars and prepare for an unforgettable marine adventure.

Experience the Acoustic Magic of St. Michael’s Cave Concerts

Deep inside Gibraltar’s Upper Rock, St. Michael’s Cave transforms into an extraordinary concert venue where music echoes off ancient limestone walls. You’ll discover this natural amphitheater hosts amazing performances throughout the year, from jazz pianists to string quartets playing popular songs by candlelight.

The cave’s unique acoustics make every note sound magical – it’s like listening to music inside a giant seashell! Your family can catch shows like Joe Stilgoe’s Big Band performances or special Queen tribute concerts. The venue even hosts trance music events that showcase top DJs against the dramatic Rock backdrop.

Tickets start around £30, and you’ll need to book through Buytickets.gi.

Remember to dress warmly since caves stay cool year-round, and arrive early to explore the stunning rock formations before the music begins. It’s an unforgettable experience you won’t find anywhere else!

Spot Endangered Species at the Wildlife Park

Where else can your kids come face-to-face with critically endangered cotton-top tamarins and rescued African grey parrots? Gibraltar’s only registered wildlife sanctuary offers incredible encounters with some of the world’s most threatened species. You’ll discover brown lemurs from Madagascar, vulnerable Asian small-clawed otters, and various tortoise species—all rescued from illegal trade.

The park’s compact layout inside Alameda Botanic Gardens makes it perfect for families with young children. Your kids can observe natural behaviors up close while learning about conservation through kid-friendly interpretive signs and talks. The sanctuary operates as a non-profit organization, ensuring all entrance fees go directly toward animal care and conservation efforts.

Don’t miss the optional “meet and feed” lemur experience, where supervised access lets children interact safely with these charismatic primates. School groups regularly use this outdoor classroom to understand wildlife protection and Gibraltar’s own ecosystem.

Walk the Upper Rock Nature Reserve Trails

While Gibraltar’s cable car offers the easiest route to the top, the real adventure begins when you and your kids lace up hiking boots and explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve‘s incredible trail network.

The family-friendly Monkey Trail creates a perfect 2.9-kilometer circuit connecting major attractions like Devil’s Gap Battery, WWII Tunnels, and Moorish Castle.

Older kids will love the challenging Thrill Seeker Trail, featuring the dramatic Skywalk and Windsor Suspension Bridge.

These paths double as outdoor classrooms where you’ll spot Mediterranean wildlife, examine limestone geology, and discover military history firsthand.

The eastern cliff routes offer breathtaking views across to North Africa, while gentler trails like Inglis Way wind through native shrubland perfect for nature study and bird watching adventures. For families seeking spectacular elevated views, the Mediterranean Steps zigzag dramatically up the cliff face to Gibraltar’s highest point.

Visit the Southernmost Lighthouse

Standing at Gibraltar’s southernmost tip, Europa Point Lighthouse marks one of the world’s most strategic maritime crossroads where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. Your kids will love spotting ships maneuvering through the Strait of Gibraltar while learning how this historic lighthouse has guided vessels since 1841.

The 20-meter tower offers incredible panoramic views, and on clear days, you’ll see North Africa’s coastline across the water.

The surrounding area provides perfect family-friendly spaces for picnicking and ship-watching. Kids can explore nearby Harding’s Battery with its restored Victorian coastal gun, making history come alive. Locals affectionately call the lighthouse “La Farola” in Llanito, Gibraltar’s unique vernacular language.

You’ll find open viewing platforms ideal for discussing how lighthouses work as navigation aids, and the evolution from oil lamps to modern electric systems that’re now remotely monitored from England.

Combine Shopping and Sightseeing at Duty-Free Areas

Since Gibraltar’s duty-free status means you’ll save 20% compared to UK prices, combining shopping with sightseeing creates the perfect family day out.

Main Street’s pedestrianised zone features Union Jack flags and red phone boxes, giving kids that authentic British feel while you browse Marks & Spencer and Next.

Don’t miss Candy Castle for the little ones and Memories of Gibraltar for unique souvenirs.

The kids will love watching planes land from Gibraltar Airport’s viewing platform while you grab duty-free cigarettes and spirits.

Head to the public market near Casemates Square for fresh snacks, then explore nearby historic sites like The Convent.

Between shopping stops, grab tapas at local restaurants—it’s entertainment and bargain-hunting rolled into one adventure. Gibraltar’s compact size makes it easy to explore multiple stores quickly, so you can maximize both shopping and family time.

The Sum Up

You’ll create amazing memories exploring Gibraltar with your kids! From riding the cable car to meeting cheeky monkeys, there’s adventure around every corner. Don’t forget your camera for those dolphin-watching trips and underground cave explorations. Gibraltar’s compact size means you can pack tons of fun into just a few days. Whether you’re shopping duty-free or hiking nature trails, your family will discover why this tiny territory offers such big adventures!